Trigger finger

Trigger finger is a condition where there is a nodule, or swelling, on one of the tendons responsible for bending (or flexing, and so called a flexor tendon) a finger - most commonly the ring or middle finger. As the finger is bent the nodule is pulled through the tendon sheath, which is narrowed at the point overlying the joint between the finger and the metacarpal bone in the palm of the hand (the metacarpo- phalangeal joint). On trying to straighten the finger, the nodule gets stuck at this point, and the finger stays bent. It can be pulled straight using the other hand, when it does so with a click. This happens quite suddenly, like the action of a trigger. The cause of these nodules is unknown. While they may respond to the application of anti-inflammatory creams applied to the overlying skin, they may require steroid injection or surgical release of the tendon sheath.
 
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